"I feel there is an inequality depending on where you live"

I’m slightly incontinent so I need to use pads. The treatment I got in Inverness was first class. However, since moving to Aberdeen I’ve found that I can’t get a pad. I’m disappointed as I’ve been paying my taxes since 1949 – this should be a national health service and not just covering certain areas more than others.

I feel there is an inequality depending on where you live. I was told I could arrange a private subscription but I can’t afford that – I’m 81-years-old.

Also when the carers have visited me, they said they couldn’t lift me themselves as they’d get in trouble, so I had to get my wife to help.

I don’t want to get the nurses or doctors in trouble, but I just feel it’s unfair that the service should vary so much depending on where you live.

Responses

Thank you for taking the time to post this concern. It does seem unfair that some products are available to people in one area and not in others. I have no real expertise in this field but will contact a colleague who should be able to help and at least explain the situation. I will get back to you as soon as I have information for you.

I have been in touch with our Continence Advisor for NHS Grampian. She says the following:

"Firstly, you should not have been told that you cannot be given a product to help you. You should arrange to be seen by your Community Nurse who can assess your needs. It is important that you have a full review to investigate your problem so that you can be provided with the best treatment and advice and we can then determine what product is suitable for you. If you would like to contact me you can email our service for advice on grampian.inveruriecas@nhs.net"

I hope this is helpful information for you and that you can get the help you need quickly and without undue stress. Please get in touch again if you need any further help or advice.